Question

Which one of the following is the oldest printed book in Japan?

• A. Diamond Sutra
• B. Tripitaka Koreana
• C. Japanese Bible
• D. Ukiyo

Hint:

Printing came into Japan along with Buddhism from China. Look for the option that is both a Buddhist text and Japanese, not Korean.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is A

Concept:

• Buddhist missionaries from China introduced hand-printing technology into Japan around 768 to 770 CE.
• The oldest Japanese book still surviving is a Buddhist text, and printing in Japan began with religious writing rather than with pictures or scripture of other faiths.

Step 1: Recall the standard fact about early Japanese printing.
The oldest Japanese book in print is the Buddhist Diamond Sutra, dated 868 CE. It contains six sheets of text along with woodcut illustrations.

Step 2: Test option (B), Tripitaka Koreana.
This is a Korean collection of Buddhist scriptures carved on wooden blocks. It belongs to Korea and not to Japan, so it is ruled out.

Step 3: Test option (C), Japanese Bible.
Printing reached Japan through Buddhist missionaries from China. Christian scripture was not the starting point of Japanese printing, so this does not fit.

Step 4: Test option (D), Ukiyo.
Ukiyo refers to a later style of Japanese pictures of the floating world, meaning urban life and entertainment. It names an art form, not the oldest printed book.

Final Answer: (A) Diamond Sutra